Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately see the stark differences in their characteristics. The Aqua King (V3) is praised for its frictionless feel, reminiscent of gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. With descriptors such as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', this linear switch offers a smooth and seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch stands out for its bright and clacky feedback, paired with a light touch for effortless actuation. These qualities make it a preferred choice for users seeking an energetic and responsive typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for both their top and bottom housings. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially suitable for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing.
Despite the similarities in housing materials, there may still be subtle differences in the sound and feel of pressing these switches due to other factors such as spring weight or stem design. However, the use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings of the switches ensures a consistent and clear sound profile across the board. The impact of the bottom housing material is notable when bottoming out a key, while the characteristics of the top housing material become more apparent when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice of polycarbonate for both the Aqua King (V3) and the Salt Ice contributes to their overall sound performance and aesthetic appeal.
Overall, the similarities in housing materials between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Jerrzi Salt Ice guarantee a comparable sound experience for users of either switch. The sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile achieved by the polycarbonate housing material remains consistent regardless of the specific switch being used. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced aesthetics when paired with RGB lighting setups. While there may be slight distinctions in the overall feel of pressing these switches, the shared use of polycarbonate ensures a reliable and high-quality sound output for both the Aqua King (V3) and the Salt Ice.
Weight
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch with 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aqua King requires 62 grams, while the Salt Ice force is unknown. This means that the Aqua King provides a bit more resistance when pressed all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Salt Ice may be the better option due to its slightly lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Aqua King would be more suitable for individuals who enjoy a bit more feedback and resistance while typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Aqua King has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Salt Ice, which may offer a more traditional typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Salt Ice's shorter travel distance could provide a quicker response time, ideal for gamers seeking faster keystroke activation. Both switches offer different benefits, with the Aqua King catering to those who enjoy a deeper key press, while the Salt Ice suits individuals looking for a snappier feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) has an MSRP of $7.18 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua King (V3) for $5.44.
The Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua King (V3) is known for its subdued sound, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature when compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches are highlighted for their bright and clacky characteristics, offering vibrant feedback and a light touch. When it comes to feel, the Aqua King (V3) stands out for its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience, reminiscent of gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. In contrast, the specific feel of the Salt Ice switch is not explicitly stated in the information provided.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a typing experience that feels smooth and buttery with minimal resistance, the Aqua King (V3) may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a switch with bright feedback and a more energetic typing feel, the Salt Ice switch might be more suitable. Remember that sound and feel can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Ultimately, trying out both switches firsthand would be the best way to determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a creamy and frictionless typing experience with a subdued sound, then the Aqua King (V3) would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright and clacky typing sensation with vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, then the Salt Ice switch is the way to go. Consider your personal preferences and typing style when selecting the switch that will enhance your typing experience the most. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose wisely based on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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